ArcaMax

Through the ages, black cats have been called lucky, unlucky, magical, mysterious and misunderstood. On National Cat Day (or Black Cat Day in the U.K.), we're reminded that though a cat's reputation may change, the cat remains gloriously unchanged, stretching in the sun, chasing a moth, asking for dinner. What part of your life could use a little more cat?

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You've taken a few tumbles and landed on your feet. You'll do it again, because climbers sometimes fall. That's the price of wanting the view from the top. Pick your next branch and go for it.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). A cat finds the warm patch of sunlight without wondering whether another spot might be better. You'll know what suits you today. Stay there a while. Contentment attracts good things.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Of course you let the cat out of the bag. It would be cruel to do otherwise. Some information isn't meant to be contained. And there are stories that seem to have lives of their own, and other people's interpretations don't have to be yours to manage.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You're particular about your company for a reason. When you curl up beside someone, it's because that person makes you feel safe enough to purr. You know what you're doing. Trust your own comfort.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Every cat assumes the best chair belongs to it. Walk into the room with that same certainty. You'll claim your place without a struggle because people often follow the example you set.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Cats spend plenty of time grooming because details deserve attention. You tend to the external details today. You sharpen a pencil, polish a sentence or straighten a shelf and get a surge of confidence just knowing it's all in order.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). A slow blink tells another cat, "I feel safe with you." You have your own version. There's someone who thrills to your sly smile, your shared joke or the sweet thing you remember about them. It says everything that needs saying today.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). A cat watches the yard for a long time before making a move. You'll recognize your opening because your whole body leans toward it. You don't decide when to pounce; you just feel the wild moment, then do it instinctually.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). The fence probably exists for a good reason, but it's one that doesn't seem to apply to you. You'll hop over, slide through and wander where you please like the cat that owns the neighborhood. Life rewards your willingness to explore.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Cats are always looking for a way up. They leap to the counter, then the cabinet, then the highest perch in the room. Follow that instinct today. Spot the next place you want to be and figure out how to get there.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Some cats knock things off shelves because they want to know what happens next. Experiment today. Rearrange the order, ask the strange question or test the unlikely idea. Discovery loves a curious mind.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Cats won't be herded. They're more likely to hide under the bed than greet company at the door. Honor your own social instinct today. You'll enjoy yourself much more on your own terms.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Oct. 29). In your Year of the Phoenix Flame, life becomes more beautiful because you're not afraid. You know the cycle. Each stage has its gifts. Beginnings give you energy. The middle gives you power. Endings give you wisdom, which lights the next beginning. More highlights: You let go of what's tedious and in comes the fresh work, relationships and financial opportunities. Cancer and Aries adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 15, 12, 40, 33 and 17.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Winona Ryder closes one supernatural chapter with "Stranger Things" and opens another by joining the cast of "Wednesday," reuniting with longtime collaborator Tim Burton and "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" co-star Jenna Ortega. Ryder's Scorpio sun, Mercury, and Venus, along with a Pisces moon, reflect the emotional depth, mystery and originality that have made her one of Hollywood's most unforgettable actresses.

For more Holiday magic, visit HolidayMathis.com. To find out more about Holiday Mathis and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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